We're forking out so much more for food

 €113 increase on shopping bill for customers | Groceries price inflation hits record high | Vegetable and fruit shortages push spend up

- DANNY DE VAAL

THE price of groceries in Irish supermarkets has rocketed by more than 16% in the last year, research shows.

The study also found hard-hit consumers were paying an additional €113.56 on their food shop now compared with the same period last year.

Data from Kantar yesterday shows grocery price inflation had hit an unprecedented 16.4%.

The retail analysts examined the 12 weeks leading up to February 19 with the year previous.

Spokeswoman Emer Healy said: "This growth in sales is largely down to grocery price inflation hitting 16.4%, a new record high.